The internet has completely changed the music industry. Because music can no longer be protected with copyright and more people than ever are downloading music for free, the old business models are become ineffective. Our focus group sessions were designed to determine exactly how Gen-Y consumers are getting their music. Information from these sessions will allow us to advise Proximity clients on how to best use music sites to connect with Gen-Y.

  1. What is the most common way you buy new music - CDs, purchase individual tracks online, subscribe to an online music service?
  2. Do you regularly illegally download music or share files you have bought with friends?
  3. Has the music industries actions (lawsuits) toward illegal downloading affected how you obtain your music?
  4. Should the music industry embrace free music downloads as a means for promoting smaller, unknown bands and musicianss
  5. Do you go to concerts? Do you support artists by purchasing merchandise and CDs?

    Findings
  • threat of prosecution not a deterent to illegal downloading
  • participants frequently buy music to support favorite artists
  • digital files have replaced CDs
  • Limewire is the preferred music sharing site for both males and females
  • Legal alternatives do not reduce illegal downloading